James Smith

James Herman Smith, departed this world on April 24, 2024, at the age of 95. Born on January 27, 1929, in Putnam County, TN to the late Jim and Stella Robinson Smith. James was a man of integrity and charm who remained close to his roots, passing away peacefully in Cookeville, TN.

Mr. Smith is survived by his devoted wife of 71 years, Anne Cartwright Smith, a true partner on his life’s journey. Together, they raised a family that included their sons, Charles "Rick" Smith and Mike Smith (Vanessa Myers), both of Cookeville, and their daughters, Tamra Lynn Smith Crawford (and her husband Walter) of Putnam Co, Pamela Rose Smith Evans (and her husband Monte) of Laura, OH, and Cheryl Dianne Smith Gantt (and her husband Wayne) of Cookeville; daughter-in-law, Michelle Brown Smith of Cookeville. His legacy will also be cherished by his brothers, Freeman and Ray Smith; his sisters, Willine Fay Smith James and Margie Alice Smith Copeland; and a granddaughter they raised, Amy Smith Sheagren; as well as by his 16 other grandchildren and the multiple generations that followed, including a host of great-grandchildren and a few great-great-grandchildren. He was a cornerstone of his family, a role he held in high esteem.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved sons, Edward Eugene Smith and William Joseph Smith; brothers, Arvil and Louis Smith; and sisters, Pauline Smith Gentry, Mary Aline Smith Bohannon, and Lucille Odell Smith Ford. Each of these departures marked the journey of a family tightly knit through shared experiences and love.

James was a man of action and dedication. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army before establishing his career as a master mason, a craft he pursued with passion and excellence. His skill in laying stone, brick, and block was known and respected within, as well as beyond, the Putnam County community.

James took strength from his faith, attending both Sand Springs and Poplar Grove Baptist Church. His interests were diverse and vibrant: a lover of old cars and airplanes, he took joy in raising cattle and was a familiar sight at Ralph's, sipping coffee with friends. His adventurous spirit shone through in his love for fishing, including trips to Canada, and he ventured on foreign lands to serve others on mission trips. His commitment to his community was further evidenced by his service as an Auxiliary Police Officer and as a Auxiliary Deputy for the Putnam County Sheriff Department.

James' education began at Rocky Point School, and the lessons he learned there extended throughout his life, manifesting in his work ethic, his commitment to others, and his unwavering sense of responsibility.

Funeral services for Mr. Smith will be held at 12pm, Saturday, April 27, 2024 from the Cookeville chapel of Hooper, Huddleston & Horner Funeral Home with Pastor Jason Groe officiating.

Interment will follow at Sand Springs Memorial Cemetery with Travis Smith, Caleb Smith, Matt Scott, Cody Scott, Jacob Smith and Ethan Sheagren will serve as Pallbearers. Honorary Pallbearers will be Walter Crawford and Scott Smith.

The family will welcome friends on Saturday from 10am until the time of services at the funeral home.

His memory will be a beacon for all who knew him, inspiring generation upon generation with tales of his hard work, kindness, and the enduring love he had for his family and friends.

The Cookeville chapel of Hooper-Huddleston-Horner is in charge of arrangements. You may share condolences and memories at www.hhhfunerals.com.